The concert will feature smaller groups of students from the Symphonic Band, directed by Matt Callope, and the Wind Ensemble, directed by Kevin Short. They will be broken down into like-instrument families, such as Woodwind Choir, Brass Choir, and Percussion Ensemble. The music will include arrangements from many different periods and styles in music history, and is chosen from the Wisconsin School Music Association contest list. These student ensembles are preparing for competition in the District Solo & Ensemble Festival.
Merrill High School will once again serve as hosts for the District Solo & Ensemble Festival, which will be taking place on the MHS campus on Saturday, February 18th.
Students in grades 6 through 12 from Merrill, Antigo, and Rhinelander will be performing solos and small ensembles that they have spent many weeks preparing with their music teachers. Events will include performers on woodwinds, brass, percussion, piano, strings, and vocals. This event, unlike a full band or choir concert, allows students to have a larger personal responsibility for the final musical product. It also allows music teachers to focus instruction on the individual music student. Students will be critiqued by professional teachers and performers from around the State.
The festival will start at 8am at Merrill High School, and admission is free and open to the public.
